This is the email that I wrote the night before my surgery. I remember sitting at a blank screen for awhile and not knowing exactly what to write to my friends, family, and coworkers. I wanted to appear strong, but deep down, I was feeling scared and anxious. I had to keep reminding myself that everything would be ok and that I was in good hands with my doctors and that I had many people praying and thinking about me. I also had Maverick (the lab) and Macy (the chi) supporting me by wearing pink bandanas.
March 20, 2017
Dear Friends and Family,
Words cannot express the love, words of encouragement, and support that I have received this past month from family and friends. My heart is forever full and grateful!
My surgery is at 7:30 tomorrow morning and TW and I will be checking in at 5:30. I am not sure how long the surgery will will last, probably about 5 hours. TW will send am email when the surgery is complete. I am ready for tomorrow’s surgery and the recovery process that will follow.
Today, I received a dye that was injected into my breast that will help the surgeon see if cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and to determine if further treatment is needed.
Being diagnosed with breast cancer has really made me look at life differently and I appreciate that you have chosen to take this journey with me and walk beside me and hold my hand. A diagnosis of any kind, cancer or not, can be emotionally and physically taxing, but you must stay positive and take things one day at a time and never give up HOPE!
Anchored in HOPE,
JW
Anchored in HOPE 